Classic Indian Masala Chai Food Pairings
While India’s favourite cup of chai is making its way around the globe, chai or masala chai has been the lifelong love of every Indian for centuries. Made from strong black tea (usually Assam Black tea) and the finest spices, this indulgent concoction is what you’ve come to expect from traditional Indian recipes.
Like wine and beer, tea too has its favourite food pairings. We’ve got a list of some delicious Indian teatime snacks that are easy to make and that are sure to go well with your favourite cup of chai.
1. Samosa
Samosas are the go-to street food for Indians any time of the year. Hot and crispy freshly fried samosas with a glass of cutting chai has become a sort of evening ritual in India. Whether Punjabi, mushroom, egg or your favourite aloo samosa, add some sweet and tangy Imli Sauce and your tea time just got a whole lot yummier.
2. Pav Bhaji
You will smell the aroma of this dish from a mile away! A popular Indian street food, pav bhaji is a spicy curry of mixed vegetables cooked in a special blend of spices, served with buttery pav. All that butter and the heat from the spices makes for a perfect and heavenly treat on a cold rainy day.
3. Vada Pav
In western parts of India, vada pavs can be found in every corner, at every tea stall. A piping hot potato dumpling, when paired with garlic chutney, makes for a delicious tea time snack.
4. Ros Omelette
This delicious snack and street food in Goan cuisine is the go-to for a quick bite with a cup of chai. ‘Ros’ which means gravy in the local language, is a spicy gravy of chicken or chickpea similar to the traditional Goan ‘Xacuti’.
5. Kanda Bhiji
A highway favourite when driving across India, you're never far away from a hot cup of chai and kanda bhiji. You might not have heard of kanda but you definitely heard of onions. Hot onion pakoras when paired with green chutney and hot simmering tea are a must have.
So there it is. My top 5 go-to snacks to indulge in at chai time. Tea Trunk’s Masala Chai Black Tea, infused with the finest spices and earthy ginger makes for a comforting and hearty cup of chai. Stock up on your favourite chai here.
Pic Credit: Nathan Fernandez
